While Nashville has steadily been known for its roaring music industry, the fashion scene has been flourishing over the past few years. Notable designers are now making our town a must stop for trunk shows and exclusive events. Some brands have even featured Nashville as the backdrop for campaign photoshoots. Of course we will always be known for western wear, but it is clear that high fashion is eager to be a part of the sartorial landscape of our city. Thanks to Nashville Fashion Week, luxury women’s ready-to-wear and accessory designer Joseph Altuzarra hosted a private shopping event on April 11th and 12th at Galerie Tangerine.
The gallery was flooded with soft afternoon light, and gorgeous Altuzarra garments hung delicately on racks amidst the artwork. The Spring 2024 collection as well as an exclusive Botanical Capsule collection were full of unique prints and patterns such as his signature shibori tie-dye and even hand-painted silks. We savored the swatches of earth tones from deep blues and forest greens to burnt oranges. Certain statement pieces caught our attention like the ‘Turner’ Jacket and ‘Grace’ Skirt, a matching set with a playful silhouette made from panels of washed indigo denim.
The accessories are equally as chic as the clothing. Luxurious leather belts made in Italy are prominent in his collections. From oversized and laser-cut to dainty skinny belts cinched over airy A-line dresses, he makes a strong case that the waist should be accessorized. More must-haves are his gray taupe ‘Medallion’ Envelope Clutch and oversized woven natural raffia handbags. We can already picture a stylish Nashvillian woman toting the staple ‘Watermill’ Bag to a day at the Cheekwood Botanical Gardens.
A percentage of the purchases from the two-day shopping event benefited the Nashville Fashion Forward Fund of The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. Organizations like this are reasons why the local fashion scene is thriving. We overheard at the trunk show that Joseph’s first task upon arriving in Nashville was to buy his daughter her first pair of cowboy boots. We are glad to host an iconic New York City designer who also appreciates what Nashville has to offer.
